By Alusine Fullah
Social Contact theory is a political philosophy that explores the idea of an agreement between individual, which defines the rights and obligations of both parties. The theory holds that the state exists only to serve the will of the people. Who are the source of all political power and can choose to give or withhold their consent. The theory also implies a moral obligation to respect the rights and freedom of others.
Social Contract agreement between the people of Sierra Leone and the New Direction government (Paopa Government) entered in existence in 2018 with the hope that the lives of the Sierra Leone will be like those angels in seventh heaven. Hopes and aspirations were very high. Some of the promises from 2018 have been met while others will never be met. They are jam tomorrow promises (unfulfilled promises). 
Depending on whom you talk to on the issue of the political trend of the New Direction. Some will say the New Direction is doing justice to the people of Sierra Leone. While, some will say it seems that things are getting to the worst every now and then.
But, apart from looking at the social contract theory, the state/ or the New Direction Government has a fundamental policy to provide basic amenities to the people of Sierra Leone. Chapter two of the 1991 Constitution invokes the Fundamental Principles of State Policy. In that chapter, it vividly states that the state (Sierra Leone) has fundamental duty or obligation to provide fundamental/ basic amenities to her people. It states:
For the purposes of promoting national integration and unity, the State shall— 2. Provide adequate facilities for and encourage free mobility of people, goods and services throughout Sierra Leone; and 3. Secure full rights of residence for every citizen in all parts of the State.
However, section 14 notes that all the fundamental obligations of the state are not justiciable in any court of law. It states: Notwithstanding the provisions of Section 4, the provisions contained in this Chapter shall not confer legal rights and shall not be enforceable in any court of law, but the principles contained therein shall nevertheless be fundamental in the governance of the State, and it shall be the duty of Parliament to apply these principles in making laws.
In nexus to the above, it is vivid that section 14 of 1991 Constitution has spoken volume that weather politicians fulfil their manifestos promises or not, the citizens of Sierra Leone do not have legal mandate/ right to sue a politician who does not fulfil his/her promises.
Yes, going through the New Direction Manifesto under the leadership of President Maada Bio it is very well written that The SLPP’s “Big Five Game Changers” for sustainable economic growth and social progress are as follows:
Feed Salone: This initiative focuses on strengthening Sierra Leone’s agricultural sector to ensure food security and promote self-sufficiency.
Human Capital Development for Nurturing Skills for 21st-Century Industry: With a vision for a skilled workforce, this initiative aims to equip Sierra Leoneans with the necessary expertise to thrive in the modern economy.
Youth Employment Scheme: Recognizing the potential of the country’s youth, this initiative seeks to create ample employment opportunities and empower young people to contribute to the nation’s development.
Revamping the Public Service Architecture Through Delivery, Efficiency, and Professionalism: By improving the efficiency and professionalism of the public service, this initiative aims to enhance service delivery to citizens and promote good governance.
Technology and Infrastructure Programs to Serve as Pathways for Sustained Economic Growth: This initiative prioritizes the development of technological infrastructure to foster innovation, connectivity, and economic advancement.
Indeed, the above manifesto is a symbol of the social contract theory. H.E Bio made the above promises during the 2023 general elections. But, if H.E Bio fails to fulfil these promises, is he going to be held accountable? Section 14 can boldly answer the foregoing question with a big NO. To conch it all, I believe that in a country like Sierra Leone, the social contract theory is absolutely not working.
